By Richie Lin    Photo：CANVA

Depending on specific circumstances and product characteristics, there may be additional details to consider during the import process. It is recommended to consult with relevant Taiwanese authorities or professional import consultants before proceeding to ensure a legal and smooth process.

Coffee culture has deeply integrated into everyday life in Taiwan. Whether as a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon leisure drink, coffee holds a significant place. With the rapid growth in demand for high-quality coffee, the volume of coffee bean imports from around the world has been increasing annually. However, importing coffee beans to Taiwan is not as simple as selecting and transporting beans. It is a complex process involving regulations, logistics, market strategies, and cultural sensitivity. Below are the key aspects importers should pay attention to in this process to ensure smooth importation and success in the market. The process of importing coffee beans to Taiwan involves several steps, including understanding customs regulations, preparing necessary documents, and ensuring compliance with laws and standards. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Understand Relevant Authorities:

• Taiwan Customs: Responsible for import clearance, tariff classification, and collection of related taxes and fees.
• Bureau of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Manages import and export permits, registration, and other trade control matters.
• Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA): Oversees food safety regulations to ensure imported coffee beans meet Taiwan’s food safety and quality standards.
• Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency, Ministry of Agriculture: Handles quarantine inspections for animal and plant products.

2. Apply for Import Permits and Registration:

• Import Permit: Coffee beans require an import permit, which should be processed according to TFDA regulations.
• Importer Registration: Registration as an importer in Taiwan is required to legally conduct import operations.

3. Confirm Product Classification:

• Product Classification: Determine whether the coffee beans are raw or roasted, as different statuses may be subject to varying regulations and inspection requirements. For unroasted coffee that has not been decaffeinated, quarantine inspection by the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection Agency is required.
• HS Code (Harmonized System Code): Identify the correct HS code for coffee beans to understand applicable import tariffs. The import tariff is free for the four types of coffee beans, with a 5% business tax and a trade promotion fee of 0.04%.

4. Prepare Necessary Documents:

• Commercial Invoice and Packing List: Detailed information on product contents, quantity, and value.
• Certificate of Origin: Proof of the origin of the coffee beans.
• Phytosanitary Certificate from the Country of Origin: Required for unroasted and non-decaffeinated coffee beans. In addition to local quarantine inspection, the original foreign phytosanitary certificate must be provided.
• Quality and Safety Inspection Reports: Submit to TFDA or provide other food safety certification documents as required by Taiwan.

5. Packaging and Labeling Requirements:

• For Non-Direct Sale to Consumers:
  • The supplier must provide an explanation and a declaration of non-direct sale to consumers to the TFDA.
  • The outer packaging must include (or have a label with) the following information:
    • Product name
    • Specification (weight)
    • Expiry date
    • Manufacturer
    • Country of origin
    • Manufacturing date
• For Direct Sale to Consumers:
  • The outer packaging must include: Chinese labeling and nutritional information.
  • If the product does not have Chinese labels and nutritional information when imported, it must first be reported to a bonded warehouse in Taiwan to add the required labels before proceeding with customs clearance.

6. Professional Transportation and Customs Declaration:

• Professional Assistance: Hire an experienced logistics company that can assist with customs clearance, document processing, and communication with regulatory authorities to ensure a smooth import process.

7. Customs Clearance and Payment of Taxes:

• Customs Procedures: After the goods arrive in Taiwan, complete the customs clearance according to Taiwan Customs regulations.
• Payment of Taxes: Pay customs duties, import taxes, and any other applicable fees based on customs assessment.

8. Keep Up with Regulatory Changes:

• Regulatory Updates: Import policies and food safety standards may change at any time. Regularly check updates from Taiwan Customs, the Bureau of Foreign Trade, and TFDA.
• Industry Engagement: Join relevant industry associations or participate in trade exhibitions to gain the latest information and share experiences.

By following these guidelines and maintaining a proactive approach toward compliance and market trends, importers can effectively navigate the complexities of bringing coffee beans into Taiwan and maximize their market potential.

Appreciate if you could share TGL Blog among your friends who are interested in first-hand market information of supply chain and updated economic incidents.